Hekani Jakhalu along with officials and finalist.
Morung Express News
Zunheboto | October 30
Advisor for Industries and Commerce, Hekani Jakhalu, has called on Sümi youth to pursue self-employment, develop skills and take greater responsibility in organising community activities, while emphasising that sports should contribute to personality development, unity and community building.
Speaking as the special guest of honour at the closing programme of the 16th Sümi Hoho Trophy in Zunheboto on October 30, Jakhalu said sports brought people together beyond physical fitness and provided a platform for sharing experiences, strengthening relationships and promoting unity.
She thanked the Sümi Games and Sports Association (SGSA) for inviting her, adding that she had been waiting for opportunities to engage with and encourage young people.
She encouraged young people not to depend entirely on elders to raise funds and organise events, but to take initiatives themselves and organise similar activities in their villages and local areas throughout the year.
She said such initiatives could help develop personality, leadership and teamwork among young people, while providing opportunities to celebrate the Sümi community and encourage its youth.
Highlighting the need for economic independence, Jakhalu urged the youth to focus on building sustainable livelihoods rather than remaining idle. She pointed out that government employment required candidates to qualify through competitive examinations and encouraged young people to explore self-employment, business ventures and skill-based activities.
She added that the Department of Industries and Commerce was also working to promote youth development and encouraged young people to work towards earning their livelihoods through productive activities.
Jakhalu further called on the Sümi community to uphold its identity in a positive manner by promoting peace, harmony and unity. While acknowledging the community's warrior heritage, she urged the people to channel that spirit towards constructive purposes and work together for collective progress.
She stressed the importance of respecting differing perspectives and opinions, encouraging the community to support one another and move forward together for the common good.
Earlier in the programme, the closing ceremony began with an invocation prayer by Rev. Inakhu Sumi, Pastor Zunheboto Town Sümi Baptist Church. Dr Vihuto Asumi, President Sümi Hoho, shared the greetings message, followed by a presentation by SGSA officials and a special song presented by Immanuel Higher Secondary School Zunheboto.
The Aghunaqa Area delivered the host speech for the 17th Sümi Hoho Trophy before Jakhalu addressed the gathering. Olympic Higher Secondary School, Zunheboto, conducted the closing ceremony, while Convenor finance committee Mughapu yeptho delivered the vote of thanks. The programme concluded with a benediction by Kughavi V Chishi, Pastor NCRC Zunheboto.
The 16th Sümi Hoho Trophy organised by the Sümi Games and Sports Association was held from October 20 to 30 in Zunheboto, hosted by the Zunheboto Area Sports Association.
